Time and again I feel very touched when receiving words of appreciation from the seniors who submitted their entries for Dragan Award. In fact, some who did not even submit an entry also wrote in to say they were just thankful that there is a platform for seniors to share their stories.
What are seniors grateful for? They are grateful that someone out there took the time and cared about them as people and wanted to hear their stories. They felt recognised for their words, their experiences and their presence in family, community and society.
During the Awards Ceremony, there is glowing joy in the faces of those who went in front and read excerpts from the short stories and poems. In attendance are often family members or friends, which makes the occasion all the more meaningful.
In addition, the 10 copies of publication that is given to each of the shortlisted participants and that they could give to their family members and friends is treasured deeply because that leaves a beautiful and long lasting mark about their lives and their creativity.
Let us not underestimate every little time spent, every little effort made, every little gift that we offer to another person. In giving, we receive lessons and blessings that is beyond measure.
“When a person realizes he has been deeply heard, his eyes moisten. I think in some real sense he is weeping for joy. It is as though he were saying, "Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it's like to be me”
― Carl R. Rogers